2025 US Open Cup Qualifying Preview: Second weekend features 40 games in 2 days (2024)

2025 US Open Cup Qualifying Preview: Second weekend features 40 games in 2 days (1)

The second matchday of 2025 Lamar Hunt US Open Cup Qualifying tournament has arrived, featuring 26 second round matches and an additional 14 third round matches over the weekend. Many of the geographical groups organized by US Soccer are now in their semifinal stages, while others still have two months to go before one team is left standing.

For six lucky teams, this will be the first weekend they see action in qualifying. Meaning a win this round and next month secures a spot in the 110th Lamar Hunt US Open Cup proper.

Follow TheCup.us on X (Twitter) @USOpenCup throughout the weekend for live updates from each game and links to live video streams (which will also be linked below).

Below you will find a brief preview of all 40 games:

SATURDAY, OCTOBER 26

SECOND ROUND

Atletico Miami Internacional FC (USSL)
vs.
O’Shea’s FC (USSL)
Gaines Park; West Palm Beach, FL
Kickoff: 4:00 p.m. ET
LIVE VIDEO: NONE

O’Shea’s FC are making their third appearance in Open Cup qualifying. Last year O’Shea’s defeated Hurricane FC 4-2, then fell to Parklands SC 2-0 after extra time. O’Shea’s FC won the 2024 USSL Florida Elite Division championship.

Atletico Miami Internacional, who originally registered for the competition under the name Fenix United before a re-branding, made their Open Cup qualifying debut in the opening round on Oct. 6 with a 3-2 win over Holder Miami FC of the UPSL.

Wisloka Chicago (UPSL)
vs.
United SC (GCSL/USASA)
Lions for Hope Sports Complex; Chicago, IL
Kickoff: 7:00 p.m. ET
LIVE VIDEO: YouTube

United SC are making their Open Cup qualifying debut this year. United SC finished 12-0-1 (1st place) in 2024 Greater Chicago Soccer League Major Division and have been promoted to Premier Division for the 2025 season.

Wisloka are also making their Open Cup qualifying debut this year. Wisloka won 2024 Illinois State Cup over Edgewater Castle FC 2-0 in July. Wisloka finished 7-2-1 in the 2024 UPSL Midwest Central-North Spring season and are 5-2-2 in the fall season. The club takes its name from Wisłoka Dębica, one of the oldest existing sports clubs in Poland having been founded in 1908.

Both teams received a bye in Round 1 of qualifying.

Red Force FC (PFL/USASA)
vs.
Naples United U-23s (SCSL/USSSA)
Paradise Coast Sports Complex; Naples, FL
Kickoff: 7:00 p.m. ET
LIVE VIDEO: NONE

After skipping last year, Naples United make a return to Open Cup qualifying. Naples United made their first qualifying attempt in 2023, which ended after one game, a 4-0 weather-shortened loss to Naples City FC.

After a two-year absence, Red Force are returning to Open Cup qualifying. They’ve qualified four times (2013, 2014, 2017 and 2018) with the final two times coming under the current Open Division qualifying format. Red Force have been eliminated in their opening game just twice (2016, 2020) in their previous six qualifying attempts under the current qualifying format. Red Force finished 7-1-1 in the 2024 Premier Futbol League Premier Spring season.

2017 Meet the Underdogs: Red Force FC

2018 Meet the Underdogs: Red Force FC

FC America CFL Spurs (USSL/USSSA)
vs.
Kissimmee SC (UPSL)
Lake Mary High School; Lake Mary, FL
Kickoff: 7:00 p.m. ET
LIVE VIDEO: NONE

FC America CFL Spurs return to Open Cup qualifying after a successful effort in 2024. FC America allowed just one goal in its three qualifying games, wins over Deportivo Lake Mary (8-0), Harbor City FC (1-0) and Leg-AZ World FC (4-1). FC America then gave USL League One side South Georgia Tormenta FC a tough time in the First Round, losing 1-0.

Kissimmee Soccer Club are making their Open Cup qualifying debut this year and are also making its debut in the 2024 UPSL Florida Central fall season, where they are currently 0-3-1.

Both clubs received a bye in Round 1 of qualifying.

Deportivo Lake Mary FC (UPSL)
vs.
Harbor City FC (UPSL)
Melbourne HS; Melbourne, FL
Kickoff: 7:00 p.m. ET
LIVE VIDEO: YouTube

Deportivo Lake Mary have participated in the last five Open Cup qualifying tournaments, but haven’t had much success, being eliminated in their opening game in all five attempts. Last year they were eliminated by eventual qualifiers FC America CFL Spurs 8-0. Lake Mary finished 4-7-1 in the UPSL Florida Central 2024 Spring season and are 1-4-0 in the fall season.

Harbor City FC are making their second run at Open Cup qualifying after an unsuccessful bid in 2024. After an opening round 3-1 win over 2022 qualifier Orlando FC Wolves, Harbor City fell to 2024 qualifier FC America CFL Spurs 1-0. Harbor City finished 5-1-6 in the 2024 UPSL Florida Central spring season. Harbor City defeated Deportivo 3-0 in April during the UPSL Spring season and are currently 3-0-2 in the fall season.

Miami Soccer Academy (USSL/USSSA)
vs.
Palm Beach Flames SC (UPSL)
Gaines Park; West Palm Beach, FL
Kickoff: 7:45 p.m. ET
LIVE VIDEO: TBA

Miami Soccer Academy are making their fourth qualifying appearance and have won their opening game all four times, including this year. In 2023 and 2024, MSA advanced to the Third Round of qualifying, losing to Naples City (3-0) and Miami United FC (4-0) respectively. MSA knocked off City Soccer FC (UPSL) 2-0 in the opening round of 2025 qualifying on Oct. 5.

Palm Beach Flames SC are making their Open Cup qualifying debut this year. Palm Beach finished 3-9-1 in the 2024 UPSL Florida South Spring season. Palm Beach received a bye in the First Round of qualifying.

FC Bartlesville Buffaloes (UPSL)
vs.
Tulsa Athletic (UPSL)
Athletic Community Stadium; Tulsa, OK
Kickoff: 8:00 p.m. ET
LIVE VIDEO: YouTube

Bartlesville are taking their first shot at Open Cup qualifying. The Buffaloes finished 6-3-1 (2nd place) in 2024 UPSL OK-AR Spring season and reached the Quarterfinals of the UPSL national playoffs.

While Tulsa Athletic are making their Open Division qualifying debut this year, they are no strangers to the Open Cup. Tulsa have qualified for the Open Cup via the NPSL six times (2014, 2015, 2017, 2022, 2023, 2024). 2023 was their biggest year in the tournament, upsetting FC Tulsa in the Second Round to set up a Third Round date with Sporting Kansas City of MLS. Tulsa finished tied with Chicago House for the Open Division prize money as a result. Tulsa won 2023 NPSL championship, but left the league in the spring of 2024 due to differences with the league. Tulsa are debuting in the 2024 UPSL fall season and are off to a 6-1-0 start.

Both clubs received a bye in Round 1 of qualifying.

Pinecrest Premier SC (UPSL)
vs.
Hurricane FC (FGCL/USASA)
Hilltopper Stadium; Delray Beach, FL
Kickoff: 8:15 p.m. ET
LIVE VIDEO: TBA

Pinecrest Premier SC are making their Open Cup qualifying debut this year. Pinecrest Premier SC finished 7-1-5 in the 2024 UPSL Florida South Spring season and are 5-1-1 in the fall season.

Hurricane FC are making their eight straight Open Cup qualifying appearance having entered every time except the first year of revamped qualifying in 2016. Hurricane has reached the final round of qualifying just once, a 4-0 loss to Miami United FC U-23s in 2020. Hurricane have been eliminated in their opening game the past three years.

Both clubs received a bye in Round 1 of qualifying.

Chicago Strikers (UPSL)
vs.
Chicago House (MWPL/USSSA)
Bjarne Ullsvik Stadium (College of DePage); Glen Ellyn, IL
Kickoff: 8:30 p.m. ET
LIVE VIDEO: YouTube

The Peter Wilt founded Chicago House are making their third qualifying appearance, having advanced to the tournament proper in 2023and2024. In 2023 House upset USL League One’s Forward Madison 3-2 after extra time, also earning AR Smith Jr. Player of the Round honors. The win set up a Third Round match with Wolt’s former club the Chicago Fire. Chicago House finished with a 6-3-1 record in the 2024 MWPL Heartland Division 1 season. House opened their qualifying run on October 5 with a 3-2 win over MWPL league-mates Edgewater Castle FC.

The Chicago Strikers return to qualifying after their debut last year and will look to do better than their 2-0 loss to Valhalla FC in their opening game in 2024 qualifying. The Strikers finished 3-7-0 in the UPSL Midwest Central South 2024 Spring season and are 1-7-0 in the fall season. The Strikers received a bye in Round 1.

City SC San Diego (UPSL)
vs.
San Diego Internacional (UPSL)
Mission Bay HS; San Diego, CA
Kickoff: 9:00 p.m. ET
LIVE VIDEO: YouTube

Both City SC San Diego and San Diego Internacional are making their Open Cup qualifying debuts this year. City SC finished 6-3-2 in the UPSL Socal South 2024 Spring season and are 7-1-0 in the fall season. SDI finished 6-4-1 in the 2024 UPSL SoCal South spring season and sit at 6-2-0 in the fall season.

City defeated Internacional 2-1 in September in UPSL Fall season play, German Sierra and Owen Michals scoring for City. The clubs are scheduled to meet again on Nov. 3.

Both clubs received a bye in Round 1 of qualifying.

Napa Valley 1839 FC (UPSL)
vs.
Bay Valley Suns Sports Club (UPSL)
Las Positas College; Livermore, CA
Kickoff: 10:00 p.m. ET
LIVE VIDEO: VEO

Napa Valley 1839 and Bay Valley are debuting in Open Cup qualifying this year. The Suns finished 5-4-1 in the 2024 UPSL NorCal South spring season and are 4-2-1 in the fall season. Napa Valley finished 6-3-1 in the 2024 UPSL Norcal North Spring season and are 4-2-2 in the fall season.

Both clubs received a bye in Round 1 of qualifying.

Playmaker FC (SWPL/USSSA)
v
s.
Irvine FC (UPSL)
Orange County Great Park (Field 12); Irvine, CA
Kickoff: 10:00 p.m. ET
LIVE VIDEO: NONE

Playmaker FC are currently 1-0-1 in the SWPL Socal Premier League, and were 3-0-0 in group play of the SWPL Raul Birones Cup, eliminated in the opening round of the knockout stage. Playmaker opened 2025 qualifying with a 2-1 extra time win over Independente Los Angeles FC (UPSL) on Oct. 5.

Irvine FC are making their third appearance in Open Cup qualifying. Both of their previous attempts in 2023 and 2024 ended with losses in their opening games. Irvine FC finished 5-4-1 in the 2024 UPSL Socal South Division 1 spring season and received a bye in Round 1 of qualifying.

Trojans FC (UPSL)
vs.
Laguna United FC (UPSL)
La Paz Sports Park; Laguna Niguel, CA
Kickoff: 10:00 p.m. ET
LIVE VIDEO: NONE

Laguna United hope to do better than their first two qualifying attempts the past two years. Both years Laguna was eliminated by Capistrano FC, each time by 4-1 scores. The good news is Capistrano FC is now a professional club with NISA and they don’t have to worry about them. Laguna United finished 7-3-1 in the 2024 UPSL SoCal North spring season.

Trojans FC return for their sixth attempt at Open Cup qualifying, hoping to turn around their fortunes. Four of their previous five qualifying attempts ended after just one game, with their lone win coming in 2020. Last year resulted in the worst loss of their qualifying history, a 7-1 from the UPSL’s Santa Monica Surf. Trojans finished 4-6-0 in the 2024 UPSL Socal South Division 1 spring season.

Both clubs received a bye in Round 1 of qualifying.

Deportivo Rose City (UPSL)
vs.
Sharktopus FC (RATS/USSSA)
Roosevelt High School; Seattle, WA
Kickoff: 10:00 p.m. ET
LIVE VIDEO: YouTube

The Portland versus Seattle rivalry kicks off at the amateur level as Portland’s Deportivo Rose City travels north to face Seattle’s Sharktopus FC. Rose City are making their Open Cup qualifying debut this year. Rose City finished 7-0-3 in the UPSL Oregon 2024 spring season and are 5-0-1 in the fall season.

The team with one of the more unique names in Open Cup history are returning for another shot a qualifying for the Open Cup. Last year Sharktopus fell short, losing to Inter San Francisco 4-2 in the second round. Sharktopus finished 8-1-0 in the 2024 Summer Seattle Recreational Adult Team Soccer league season.

Both clubs received a bye in Round 1 of qualifying.

Soccer Academy Nevada (NISA Nation/USASA)
vs.
Las Vegas Legends FC (NISA Nation/USASA)
Faith Lutheran High School; Las Vegas, NV
Kickoff: 10:00 p.m. ET
LIVE VIDEO: YouTube

Soccer Academy Nevada are making their Open Cup qualifying debut this year. This is also the first attempt at Open Division qualifying for the Las Vegas Legends FC, though they previously qualified in 2022 as a member of NPSL. In that appearance Vegas beat Park City Red Wolves (USL-2) 3-2, but then lost 5-0 to New Mexico United (USL Championship). The Legends NPSL team finished 10-0-0 in the 2024 season. SAN and the Legends met on October 12 in 2024 Fall NISA Nation season play, with the Legends coming out 5-4 victors. Roberto Soto scored four of the five goals for Las Vegas.

Both clubs received a bye in Round 1 of qualifying.

THIRD ROUND

Mint Hill FC (UPSL)
vs.
Dalton United (UPSL)
Dalton Stadium; Dalton, GA
Kickoff: 6:00 p.m. ET
LIVE VIDEO: NONE

Mint Hill are making their third appearance in Open Division qualifying, and the previous two ended after just one game, a 3-1 loss to Tobacco Road FC in 2022, and a 6-1 defeat in 2024 to their opponents this year. Mint Hill’s 2024 season did not go too well either, finishing 4-7-2 in the UPSL Mid Atlantic spring season, although they are 7-2-0 in the fall session. Mint Hill opened 2025 qualifying on Oct. 5 with a 1-0 over UPSL rivals South Carolina United Heat thanks to a 90th minute goal from Klint Parker.

Dalton United made their Open Cup qualifying debut on Oct. 6 with a 3-0 win over Pre-College Development Academy (UPSL). Dalton finished 9-2-1 in the UPSL Georgia 2024 spring season and are 7-0-0 in the fall season.

Alloy SC (EPSL/USASA)
vs.
New Jersey Alliance (UPSL)
Athenia Steel Park; Clifton, NJ
Kickoff: 7:15 p.m. ET
LIVE VIDEO: YouTube

Alloy made their Open Division qualifying debut on Oct. 6 with a 4-3 victory over EPSL rivals Oaklyn United, rallying from a 3-1 halftime hole. Alloy finished atop the EPSL Delaware River Conference with a 13-1-2 record for the 2023/24 season. Alloy reached the final of the 2024 Frank Giancroce Open Cup (Eastern Pennsylvania), losing to West Chester 4-2.

New Jersey Alliance are making their fourth qualifying appearance and opened their 2025 campaign with a 2-0 win over SC Vistula Garfield (EPSL). After going “one and done” in 2022 and 2023, the club reached the final round of qualifying last year, conceding non goals in their three games. Their opening game last year was also a 2-0 win over Vistula Garfield. Unfortunately, the final game was a 0-0 draw with Vereinigung Erzgebirge, and they were eliminated via penalty shootout. NJA FC finished 7-0-3 in the 2024 UPSL Northeast American South spring season and are 6-2-1 in the fall season.

Phila. Ukrainian Nationals (USLPA/USASA)
vs.
West Chester United SC (USLPA/USASA)
Kildare’s Turf Field; West Chester, PA
Kickoff: 7:30 p.m. ET
LIVE VIDEO: NONE

The USL of Pennsylvania rivals will battle in qualifying for the third time since 2019. West Chester won the first encounter 3-0, and prevailed again in the opening round last year, 2-1. The most recent meeting in league play between the teams came in June, with West Chester prevailing 3-2.

West Chester finished atop the standings for the 2023/24 USL of PA season at 12-1-0, while the Uke Nats trailed them in 5th at 6-6-2. West Chester also won the Frank Giancroce Open Cup (Eastern Pennsylvania), defeating Alloy SC of the EPSL 4-2. Besides qualifying in 2016, 2019 and 2023 through the Open Division, West Chester have also qualified for the Open Cup through the USL-2 (2022) and NPSL (2024).

While the Ukrainian Nationals have yet to reach the Open Cup in the Modern Era, the club dominated the tournament in the 1960s with four championships (1960, 1961, 1963 and 1966), one other Finals appearance (1964) and four semifinal finishes (1959, 1962, 1965 and 1968)

Aegean Hawks FC (APL/USASA)
vs.
MSI Pro (UPSL)
Liberty Sports Park; Upper Marlboro, MD
Kickoff: 7:30 p.m. ET
LIVE VIDEO: YouTube

MSI Pro (Montgomery Soccer Inc.) are making their Open Cup qualifying debut this year. MSI finished 7-3-1 in the 2024 UPSL DMV North spring season and are currently 7-1-0 in the fall season. MSI defeated Patuxent FA (EPSL) 1-0 in their opening qualifying match, Atakan Ozturk scoring in the 71st minute.

Aegean Hawks (named by club founders after Greek military helicopters) are well seasoned in Open Cup qualifying. They have entered eight of the last nine qualifying tournaments. While they have qualified for the Open Cup three times (2007, 2009 and 2012), they have failed to qualify since Open Division qualifying was revised in 2016. In fact, the club has never made it past a second game. The Hawks finished 7-2-1 in APL 2024 Spring season. The Hawks kicked off their 2025 qualifying run on Oct. 6 with a dramatic 2-1 win over DC Hyper (UPSL). After Hyper tied the game with an 88th minute penalty kick, David Rosenbaum won the game for the Hawks with a goal in the eighth minute of stoppage time.

Vereinigung Erzgebirge (USLPA/USASA)
vs.
Kensington SC (EPSL/USASA)
Tiger Field (Holy Family Univ.); Philadelphia, PA
Kickoff: 8:00 p.m. ET
LIVE VIDEO: YouTube

VE has entered every edition of qualifying since it was revamped. VE qualified once in 2002, then again last year, winning 3-0 over Philadelphia Heritage SC (EPSL), and advancing twice on penalties over United German Hungarians (USL of PA) and New Jersey Alliance (UPSL). VE also qualified in 2020 with a 2-1 win over West Chester United, but the Open Cup was canceled due to the COVID-19 pandemic. VE finished the 2023/24 USL of PA season with a 10-3-1 record. In the early 2024/25 season, VE is on top of the league at 3-1-0. VE routed Colonial SC 4-0 on October 6 to open qualifying. Chris Baker scored two goals, and former pro Antoine Hoppenot added two assists.

This is Kensington’s third attempt at Open Division qualifying. Both of Kensington’s previous qualifying runs ended after one game, a 3-0 loss to United German Hungarians in 2023, and a penalty kick elimination by Philadelphia Heritage SC after a 3-3 draw last year. On Oct. 5 Kensington defeated Vidas United (EPSL) 4-3 in their opening match. Kensington jumped out to a 4-1 but were able to withstand the Vidas comeback.

SUNDAY, OCTOBER 27

SECOND ROUND

210 FC (UPSL)
vs.
Austin Thunder (AMSA/USASA)
Onion Creek Soccer Complex; Austin, TX
Kickoff: 11:00 p.m. ET
LIVE VIDEO: TBA

210 FC are making their debut in Open Cup qualifying. 210 is the area code for San Antonio, Texas. 210 FC will try to become the second team to qualify for the Open Cup with an area code as its team name, with Omaha, Nebraska’s 402 FC first making the cut in 2009. 210 FC finished 3-6-1 in the 2024 UPSL Texas Central spring season and are 2-2-2 in the fall season.

The Thunder are making their second appearance in Open Cup qualifying, making their debut last year with a 4-1 over Daggers CTX, followed by a 2-1 defeat to Alamo City SC, both at home. Austin finished 12-2-2 in AMSA Premier Division 2023/24 season, finishing in first.

Both clubs received a bye into Round 2.

River Miami FC (USSL/USSSA)
vs.
Miami United FC (UPSL)
Dr. Lester B. Brown Park; Miami Gardens, FL
Kickoff: 5:30 p.m. ET
LIVE VIDEO: YouTube

One of the Cinderella stories of the 2024 US Open Cup makes their return for another qualifying run. This is Miami United’s fifth time in qualifying, and they’ve been successful in their last three attempts (2020, 2023 and 2024). They are currently on a ten-game qualifying win streak with their only loss coming in their debut attempt in 2018.

In the 2024 Open Cup, Miami United knocked off pro clubs Chattanooga FC (1-0) and Club de Lyon (2-0), before falling to Memphis 901 FC (USL Championship) 2-0. Miami United finished 9-3-1 in the 2024 UPSL Florida South spring season and are 5-0-0 in the fall season.

River Miami FC are making their Open Cup qualifying debut this year. Both clubs received a bye into Round 2.

International Soccer Association (UPSL)
vs.
Inter Nona SC (USSL/USSSA)
Airport Lakes Park (Field A); Orlando, FL
Kickoff: 5:30 p.m. ET
LIVE VIDEO: TBA

ISA are making their fourth appearance in Open Cup qualifying, returning after not entering last year. ISA has never advanced past a second game in qualifying. ISA finished 5-6-2 in the 2024 UPSL Florida South spring season and are 1-5-0 in the fall season.

Not to be confused with Nona FC of Kissimmee, Fla., who qualified in 2023 from USL League Two. Inter Nona, from Orlando, Fla., are making their Open Cup qualifying debut this year.

Both clubs received a bye into Round 2.

FORO SC (UPSL)
vs.
D’Feeters Kicks SC (DSA/USSSA)
Sunnyvale HS; Sunnyvale, TX
Kickoff: 6:00 p.m. ET
LIVE VIDEO: TBA

D’Feeters Kicks (or DKSC for short) are appearing in Open Cup qualifying for the third time. DKSC qualified in their first attempt in 2022, and almost made it two in a row in 2023, losing 4-3 in extra time to Beaman United in the final round. In the 2022 Open Cup, DKSC knocked of 2021 NPSL champions Denton Diablos 3-2 in the opening round, then fell to the USL Championship’s San Antonio FC 3-1 in Round 2.

2022 Meet the Underdogs: D’Feeters Kicks

FORO SC are making their second run at Open Cup qualifying after a successful attempt in 2024. I last year’s qualifying, FORO started with a 2-0 win over Tenfifteen FC (UPSL), then received a forfeit win over. Athletic Katy FC. FORO punched their Open Cup ticket with a 4-0 win over Alamo City SC (UPSL). In the Open Cup FORO pulled off a memorable upset of Austin FC II of MLS NEXT Pro, scoring the tying goal in extra time stoppage time, then winning the penalty tiebreaker. FORO’s Kyle Bennett earned Player of the Round honors for his performance in the match.

FORO finished 6-2-2 in the 2024 UPSL Texas North spring season and reached UPSL 2023 fall season Final Four. They are currently 5-1-0 in the 2024 fall season.

Both clubs received a bye into Round 2.

ASC New Stars (HFA/USASA)
vs.
Houston Regals SC (USSL/USSSA)
British International School of Houston; Katy, TX
Kickoff: 6:00 p.m. ET
LIVE VIDEO: FACEBOOK

While this is the first appearance for ASC New Stars in Open Cup qualifying since it was revamped in 2016, the team has entered qualifying multiple times in the past. ASC qualified for the Open Cup in 2008 by reaching the USASA Region III championship and came close in 2013, dropping a “Win & You’re In” match 2-0 to Red Force FC in the USASA Region III Semifinals. ASC finished the 2023/24 Houston Football Association Premier Division season with a perfect 18-0-0 record. ASC stands for Aria Soccer Club and are celebrating the club’s 50th anniversary.

Houston Regals are making their Open Cup qualifying debut this year. Regals won the 2024 Spring USSL Texas championship. Both clubs received a bye into Round 2.

Washington AC (RATS/USSSA)
vs.
Holac FC (UPSL)
Wener L. Neudorf Stadium; Tukwila, WA
Kickoff: 8:00 p.m. ET
LIVE VIDEO: YouTube

Washington AC are making their qualifying debut, and come from Seattle Recreational Adult Team Soccer, the same league as 2024’s viral sensation Sharktopus FC. The teams have taken turns atop the SRATS, Washington AC winning the Winter & Spring regular season and Shaktopus taking the Summer section. Washington opened 2025 qualifying with a 4-3 win over Bellevue Athletic FC (UPSL).

Holac make their return to Open Cup qualifying after falling short in their debut campaign in 2023. Holac started with a penalty kick win over Bellevue Athletic FC but lost 2-1 in the next round to Sharktopus FC. Holac finished 4-4-5 in the 2024 UPSL Washington Spring season and are 5-1-1 in the fall season. Holac received a bye into Round 2.

Real Galt FC (UPSL)
vs.
FC Folsom (UPSL)
Folsom Lake College; Folsom, CA
Kickoff: 9:00 p.m. ET
LIVE VIDEO: VEO LIVE (LINK COMING SOON)

Real Galt are making their qualifying debut this year. Galt finished 3-3-4 in the 2024 UPSL Norcal North spring season and are 3-3-1 in the fall season. Galt made a successful qualifying debut on Oct. 6, winning 3-1 over Acoreano Sport (UPSL).

FC Folsom return after qualifying for the Open Cup in 2024 in their first attempt. Folsom knocked off BattleBorn FC (NISA Nation) 3-2, UC Davis Club Soccer (USASA/West Coast Soccer Assoc.) 3-2, and Valley 559 FC (UPSL) 5-3, finally overcoming Inter San Francisco (USASA/San Francisco Soccer Football Lg) 4-2 in the final round. Once on the big stage they pushed professional Central Valley Fuego of USL League One, losing 2-1 on an 82nd minute winner by the Fuego.

Folsom finished 6-2-2 in the 2024 UPSL Norcal North spring season and are 7-0-1 in the fall season. Folsom received a bye into Round 2. Folsom defeated Galt 3-1 on Sept. 21 in UPSL play.

Valley 559 FC (UPSL)
vs.
Modesto City FC (NISAN/USASA)
Central Catholic HS; Modesto, CA
Kickoff: 9:00 p.m. ET
LIVE VIDEO: TBA

Valley 559 FC return for their second attempt at Open Cup qualifying. In their debut last year, Valley defeated Real San Jose 2-1 (USSSA/NSL) 2-1 and Bay Area United FC (NISA Nation) 4-1 before falling to FC Folsom (UPSL) 5-3. 559 is the area code for Fresno, California. Valley 559 finished 9-1-0 in the 2024 UPSL Norcal South Spring season and reached the Final 8 of the UPSL Spring National playoffs. In the fall season they are 2-3-0.

Modesto City are making their third appearance in Open Cup qualifying after skipping 2024. In 2022 and 2023 Modesto City’s qualifying run ended after their opening game. Both clubs received a bye into Round 2.

Chula Vista FC (SWPL/USSSA)
vs.
FC Balboa (UPSL)
Logan Memorial Educational Complex; San Diego, CA
Kickoff: 9:30 p.m. ET
LIVE VIDEO: TBA (LINK COMING SOON)

Chula Vista has considerably more qualifying experience, making their seventh appearance, though this year marks a return after a two-year hiatus. Chula Vista has qualified three times, 2015, 2017 and 2020, with 2020 voided due to COVID-19. During the 2015 US Open Cup. Chula Vista pulled a 3-0 road upset over the USL’s Arizona United (now Phoenix Rising). Chula Vista opened their 2024 qualifying campaign on Oct. 5 with a penalty kick win over fellow SWPL club Desert FC after a 1-1 draw.

FC Balboa are making their Open Cup qualifying debut this year. FC Balboa finished 0-9-2 in the 2024 UPSL Socal South spring season and are 1-7-0 in the fall season. FC Balboa received a bye in Round 1 of qualifying.

International San Francisco (SFSFL/USASA)
vs.
JASA RWC (SWPL)
Red Morton Community Park; Redwood City, CA
Kickoff: 10:00 p.m. ET
LIVE VIDEO: NONE

Inter are making their fourth qualifying attempt, having entered every year since 2022.Inter qualified in 2023 with a 5-1 win over BattleBorn FC, but failed to repeat that success last year,losing 4-2 to FC Folsom in the final round. Inter started in the SFSFL 3rd tier in 2021, won promotion two seasons in a row to reach the Premier Division. Inter got off to a winning start in their opening game, defeating SFSFL rivals SF Vikings SC 4-1 on Oct. 6.

JASA RWC return to Open Cup qualifying in 2024 for their fifth appearance. In their debut in 2019, they came one game short of the final round, but in 2020, 2022 and 2024 JASA was one and done. JASA began in 1999 as DV8 Defenders and qualified for the 2011 Open Cup by reaching the USASA Region IV Final. JASA received a bye into Round 2.

UDA Soccer (UPSL)
vs.
Next Level Soccer (UPSL)
Mesa High School; Mesa, AZ
Kickoff: 10:00 p.m. ET
LIVE VIDEO: TBA

New Mexico State University’s UDA makes their third appearance in Open Cup qualifying, looking to repeat their qualifying success from 2023 after missing out last year. UDA is a soccer academy at New Mexico State University that allows players to receive year-round training while enrolled at New Mexico State. In 2023 UDA became the second collage affiliated team to reach the Open Cup in the Modern Era, and the first to do so through Open Division qualifying. Brigham Young University (BYU) qualified three times as a member of the Premier Development League (now USL League Two) in 2006, 2007 and 2015. UDA narrowly missed out on qualifying for the 2024 Open Cup, as Azteca FC gained revenge for their 2023 loss. UDA finished 3-4-3 in the 2024 UPSL West Texas-New Mexico spring season and are 3-1-1 in the fall season.

2023 Meet the Underdogs: UDA Soccer

Next Level Soccer are making their debuts in both Open Cup qualifying and the UPSL in 2024 Fall season, where they are 1-1-4. Both clubs received a bye into Round 2.

THIRD ROUND

FCY New York (UPSL)
vs.
Pittsburgh Dynamo (GPSL/USASA)
Highmark Stadium; Pittsburgh, PA
Kickoff: 12:00 p.m. ET
LIVE VIDEO: NONE

FCY New York and Pittsburgh Dynamo are making their debuts in Open Cup qualifying. FCY finished the 2024 UPSL Western NY spring season with a 5-0-5 record. FCY opened their qualifying run with a 5-3 win over Roc City Boom (NISA Nation). Dynamo were founded in 1982 as primarily a youth soccer organization. Pittsburgh received a double bye in Rounds 1 and 2.

VA Revolution Pro (UPSL)
vs.
Steel Pulse FC (MSSL/USASA)
Millford Mill Academy; Millford Mill, MD
Kickoff: 3:00 p.m. ET
LIVE VIDEO: YouTube

This is the second qualifying attempt for VA Revolution Pro with last year’s run stopping after one game, a 4-1 loss to Aegean Hawks FC. VA Revolution Pro finished 5-1-4 in the 2024 UPSL DMV South Spring season and are 1-7-0 in the Fall season. Revolution Pro started their qualifying campaign with a penalty kick win over Northern Virginia FC (EPSL) after a 2-2 draw on Oct. 6.

Steel Pulse FC have not qualified in their four previous appearances but have an impressive resume outside of qualifying. Steel Pulse finished 8-2-0 in the 2024 MSSL Division 1 season and won the 2024 Rowland Cup (Maryland State Cup) 2-1 over Christos FC. qualifying has been a different story, however. Their first three attempts ended after just one game, and last year their lone qualifying win (13-2 over Villarreal CF Virginia) was followed by a penalty kick loss to Christos FC after a 1-1 draw. In their qualifying opener on October 6, Steel Pulse dominated Maryland Bobcats II (EPSL) 7-0.

Colorado Rovers (CPL/USSSA)
vs.
Azteca FC (CPL/USSSA)
Victoria Sports Park; Golden, CO
Kickoff: 4:00 p.m. ET
LIVE VIDEO: NONE

The Colorado Rovers are starting their ninth qualifying run but have struggled to find success in that time. Five times they have been “one and done”, and just once, in 2020, did they reach the final round of qualifying,ending with a 4-0 loss to FC Boulder Harpos. The Rovers finished 2-4-2 in the Colorado Premier League Premier Division 2024 Spring season and are currently 3-2-1 in the Fall season. The Rovers kicked off 2025 qualifying on Oct. 6 with a 1-0 win over Timbers SC (Mountain Prem. League).

Azteca FC are perhaps the most accomplished club from Colorado in Open Division qualifying. Azteca have qualified four times (2017,2018,2022and 2024),last year defeating UDA Soccer 2-1to punch their ticket. Azteca finished 6-1-2 in the CPL Premier Division 2024 Spring season, defeating Harpo’s FC in the CPL Spring playoff for their third straight league championship. In the Fall season, Azteca are off to a 4-1-0 start. Azteca got off on the right foot in their opening qualifying game on Oct. 6 with a 5-1 win over CPL rivals Boulder United FC.

2022 Meet the Underdogs: Azteca FC

2017 Meet the Underdogs: Azteca FC

Harpos FC (CPL/USSSA)
vs.
FC Denver (CPL/USSSA)
Northfield HS; Denver, CO
Kickoff: 5:00 p.m. ET
LIVE VIDEO: NONE

Harpos have appeared in every qualifying tournament since 2016. Since 2016, Harpos have reached the final round of qualifying five times, with the last coming in 2022. Colorado rivals Azteca FC have eliminated Harpos four times, most recently last year. Harpos have qualified three times, 2015, 2016 and the cancelled 2020 tournament. Harpos finished 5-1-3 in the 2024 CPL Premier Division spring season and are 4-1-2 in the fall season. Harpos received a double bye through Rounds 1 and 2.

FC Denver are one of the more seasoned clubs in qualifying from Colorado, having entered every year since 2016. They qualified in2018and2019. FC Denver has been on a dry spell since 2019, going “one and done” in 2020 and 2021, and being eliminated by Azteca FC in 2023 and 2024. FC Denver began their 2025 qualifying run with a 2-1 win over Peak Eleven FC (Mountain Prem. League). Liam Creedon scored both goals on first half penalty kicks. FC Denver and Harpos played at a 4-4 draw CPL fall league play on September.

2018 Meet the Underdogs: FC Denver

2019 Meet the Underdogs: FC Denver

CD Faialense (BSSL/USASA)
vs.
Project Football (UPSL)
Captain John Bertram; Salem, MA
Kickoff: 7:00 p.m. ET
LIVE VIDEO: NONE

Project Football are making their Open Cup qualifying debut this year. Project Football finished 3-6-1 in the 2024 UPSL New England North Div. 1 spring season. Project Football advanced in their debut qualifying game on Oct. 5, eliminating FC Omens (Bay State Soccer League) on penalties after a 1-1 draw.

Faialense are in their second qualifying run, and after defeating Boston Street last year, they fell 3-2 to Brockton FC United in Round 3, Faialense are currently 10-3-2 and in 1st place in the Bay State Soccer League Division 1 2024 season. They also finished atop the BSSL in the 2023 season. Faialense is Portuguese meaning native or inhabitant ofFaial, an island among the Portuguese archipelago of the Azores. Faialense cruised in their opening qualifying game, beating Boston Street FC (UPSL) 4-1.

Lansdowne Yonkers FC (EPSL/USASA)
vs.
Zum Schneider FC 03 (EPSL/USASA)
Jack McManus Field; New York, NY
Kickoff: 7:00 p.m. ET
LIVE VIDEO: YouTube

One of the more seasoned participants of Open Cup qualifying faces one of the rookies. Landowne Yonkers are making their eighth qualifying appearance, while league rivals KidSuper Samba AC are in it for the first time. Landowne have reached the Open Cup proper four times, three through Open Division qualifying (2016, 2018, 2024) and again in 2022 as National Amateur Cup champions. Zum Schneider are making their second attempt, with last year ending after one game, a 3-1 loss to the NY Renegades.

Lansdowne and Zum Schneider occupied opposite ends of the 2023/24 EPSL Metropolitan Conference standings, Lansdowne finishing first at 18-1-3, and Zum Schneider finished in the middle of the table with a 8-11-3 mark. In their two meetings in the 2023/24 season, Landowne won 4-0 last November and again in April, 2-0. In the early 2024/25 season, Lansdowne are on to at 4-0-2, while Zum Schneider are 1-1-4.

Lansdowne had an easy time in their qualifying opener, a 6-1 win over EPSL league-mates KidSuper Samba, while Zum Schneider’s opener was a bit more challenging, a 2-0 win over another EPSL club, Central Park Rangers FC.

2022 Meet the Underdogs: Lansdowne Yonkers

2016 Meet the Underdogs: Lansdowne Bhoys

New York Renegades FC (UPSL)
vs.
Leros SC (LISFL/USASA)
SUSA Orlin & Cohen Sports Complex; Central Islip, NY
Kickoff: 7:00 p.m. ET
LIVE VIDEO: YouTube

The New York Renegades made their qualifying debut last year, and almost made it in, falling to the New York Pancyprian Freedoms (EPSL) 3-0 in the next to last round. The Renegades had a stellar year in the UPSL spring season, finishing 10-0-0 and reaching the Quarterfinals of 2024 Spring UPSL national playoffs. They were just one of just three teams to go unbeaten and untied in 2024 UPSL Spring season. Currently they’re 7-2-0 in the UPSL Fall season. Forward Reneau Rances leads the UPSL fall season with 19 goals. On Oct. 5 the Renegades open qualifying with a 4-3 win over one of the more historic clubs in the years qualifying New York Greek American SC (EPSL).

Leros are making their initial Open Cup qualifying attempt this year. Leros are currently 3-0-1 in the Long Island Soccer Football League Premier Division. In their first ever qualifying game on Oct. 6, Leros came away with a 2-1 win over NY Empire FC (UPSL). With the win Leros became the first LISFL team to win a match in Open Division Open Cup Qualifying.

Southern Indiana FC (UPSL)
vs.
Bowling Green FC (UPSL)
Bowling Green Junior High School; Bowling Green, KY
Kickoff: 8:00 p.m. ET
LIVE VIDEO: YouTube

Don’t be confused, Bowling Green FC’s opponent in Round 2 is ANOTHER team named Southern Indiana, but different from the Southern Indiana they played in Round 1.

This is Bowling Green FC’s second run at Open Cup qualifying. Their debut in 2023 ended with a 3-1 loss to Beaman United in their opening game. Bowling Green finished 7-2-1 in the 2024 UPSL KY-TN Spring season and are currently 4-4-0 in the UPSL Fall season. Bowling Green defeated the OTHER Southern Indiana, the Guardians, 3-0 on Oct. 6 to open their qualifying run.

Southern Indiana FC (not to be confused with Southern Indiana Guardians, another UPSL club in Open Cup qualifying), are making their first run at Open Cup qualifying SIFC finished 5-5-0 in the 2024 UPSL gateway spring season and are currently 5-0-1 in the Fall season. Southern Indiana won its initial qualifying game on Oct. 6 over Valhalla FC (Ohio Valley Prem. League) 3-1.

Alexandria Reds (UPSL)
vs.
Virginia Dream FC (UPSL)
Meridan High School; Falls Church, VA
Kickoff: 8:00 p.m. ET
LIVE VIDEO: YouTube

Alexandria Reds and Virginia Dream FC are each making their Open Cup qualifying debuts in 2024. Alexandria finished 6-1-3 in the 2024 UPSL DMV South spring season and are currently 3-4-2 in the Fall season. The Reds began the qualifying this year with a 3-2 win over Guerrilla FC of the DC Premier League.

Virginia Dream’s UPSL team finished 8-1-1 in 2024 spring season & reached Round of 16 in UPSL national playoffs. Their team in the Virginia Super Soccer League finished 9-0-1 in the summer season and are 6-0-2 in the fall session. Virginia Dream drew a bye into Round 2.

StrikerZ DFW Soccer Club (TX) and Woodland Football Club (KS) drew byes in Rounds 1 and 2 and will face a winner from Round 2 in Round 3.

StrikerZ DFW Soccer Club are making their Open Cup qualifying debut this year.

Woodland Football Club of Shawnee, Kansas are making their Open Cup qualifying debut this year. Woodland Football Club finished 15-1-0 in the 2024 The Select League season. Woodland Football Club are the first club from Kansas to enter Open Division qualifying since Kansas City’s Santa Fe Wanderers in 2018.

2025 US Open Cup Qualifying Preview: Second weekend features 40 games in 2 days (2024)

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